Public schools in New York City have banned processed meat such as hot dogs, ham, bacon, and sausage from being sold in cafeterias.
The New York City Council recently adopted the Resolution 238 – which was introduced back in 2018 by Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams and Council Member Fernando Cabrera.
‘Carcinogenic to humans’
President Adams, who reversed his T2 diabetes through a plant-based diet three years ago, said: “We cannot continue feeding our children substances that are scientifically proven to increase their chances of cancer later in life.”
The report cites several Harvard publications and research from the World Health Organization – who state the consumption of processed meat is ‘carcinogenic to humans’ which can lead to a plethora of health issues such as cancer, heart disease, and strokes.
‘Nutritious meals’
According to the Physicians Committee For Responsible Medicine, Adams added: “I know from my own experience with being diagnosed as a T2 diabetic that it is so important to take ownership of your health and take control of what you eat.
“We must feed our kids nutritious meals that will nourish their bodies and help them perform better academically. Kids want to be healthy and strong, so let’s help them get there by feeding them healthy meals.”
Public schools in New York also participate in the Meatless Monday initiative – and offer daily plant-based meals to students.